Ace of Hearts Redbud trees, also known by their common names Eastern Redbud ‘Ace of Hearts’, and botanical name Cercis canadensis ‘Ace of Hearts’, are captivating small deciduous trees renowned for their vibrant spring blossoms and unique heart-shaped foliage. These ornamentals offer multi-season interest, making them a popular choice for landscapes of all sizes, providing a solution to adding both beauty and manageable size to your garden.
At Gardencenterpoint.com, we provide the resources you need to successfully cultivate these beautiful Cercis canadensis varieties. Find local nurseries, compare prices, and learn the best planting and care techniques for your new Ace of Hearts Redbud tree.
Ace of Hearts Redbud: A Detailed Overview
The Ace of Hearts Redbud is a cultivar of the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), a species native to eastern and central North America. What sets ‘Ace of Hearts’ apart is its compact size, dense branching, and remarkably consistent heart-shaped leaves. This makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens, patios, or as an accent tree in larger landscapes where a full-sized Eastern Redbud might be too overwhelming.
Here at Gardencenterpoint, we have found that several factors contribute to its popularity, most notably its predictable growth and the almost perfect symmetry of its foliage. Unlike some other redbud varieties that can have more irregular leaf shapes, ‘Ace of Hearts’ consistently delivers on its namesake characteristics.
| Common name | Ace of Hearts Redbud, Eastern Redbud Ace of Hearts |
| Botanical name | Cercis canadensis Ace of Hearts |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercis |
| Species | canadensis |
| Origin | Eastern and Central North America (Cultivar) |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Plant type | Deciduous Tree |
| Hardiness zone | 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Sunlight | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Spacing | 9-15 ft. |
| Flowering period | Spring (March-April) |
| Height | 9-15 ft. |
| Width | 9-15 ft. |
| Flower color | Magenta-Pink |
| Leaf color | Green |
| Fall color | Yellow |
| Flower benefit | Showy, Attracts Pollinators |
| Garden style | Cottage, City, Informal |
| Uses | Specimen Tree, Accent Plant, Container, Understory Tree |
Key Features and Benefits:
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
| Size | Typically grows to 9-15 feet tall and wide at maturity. This is smaller than the standard Eastern Redbud. (Source: Missouri Botanical Garden, 2024). | Ideal for smaller gardens, patios, and urban landscapes. |
| Leaves | Distinctive heart-shaped leaves, approximately 2-3 inches wide, with a deep green color throughout the summer. The leaves overlap slightly, creating a dense, textured canopy. | Provides beautiful foliage interest throughout the growing season. |
| Flowers | Profuse, pea-like, magenta-pink flowers that emerge in early spring (typically March-April, depending on location) before the leaves. The flowers are borne directly on the branches and even older wood (cauliflory). | Adds a spectacular burst of color to the spring landscape. Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. |
| Fall Color | Leaves turn a pleasant yellow in the fall, though the color may not be as consistently vibrant as some other redbud cultivars. | Offers additional seasonal interest. |
| Growth Habit | Compact, dense, and rounded. Requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape. | Low-maintenance and easy to manage. |
| Sunlight | Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day). | Adaptable to a range of light conditions. |
| Soil | Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil. Tolerant of clay, loam, and sandy soils. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.5). | Versatile and relatively easy to grow in various soil conditions. |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9. (Source: Arbor Day Foundation, 2024) | Suitable for a wide range of climates across the United States. |
| Drought Tolerance | Once established, it has good drought tolerance. | Requires less watering after the initial establishment period. |
| Deer Resistance | Moderately deer-resistant. While not completely deer-proof, redbuds are generally less palatable to deer than some other landscape plants. | Reduces potential damage. |
Planting Ace of Hearts Redbud: A Step-by-Step Guide
Proper planting is crucial for the long-term health and success of your Ace of Hearts Redbud. We at Gardencenterpoint, always recommend taking the time to do it right. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Step 1: Timing: The best time to plant is in the fall or early spring, while the tree is dormant. This allows the roots to establish before the stress of summer heat or winter cold.
- Step 2: Site Selection: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day). Ensure the soil is well-drained. Avoid areas with standing water or consistently soggy soil.
- Step 3: Soil Preparation: While Ace of Hearts Redbuds are adaptable, amending the soil with compost or other organic matter can improve drainage and fertility. A soil test can help determine if any amendments are needed to adjust the pH.
- University of Minnesota Extension recomends this: If your soil is heavy clay, amend it generously with compost to improve drainage.
- Step 4: Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This provides ample space for the roots to spread.
- Step 5: Removing the Tree from the Container: Carefully remove the tree from its container, being gentle with the roots. If the roots are circling around the bottom of the container (root-bound), gently tease them apart or make a few vertical cuts along the root ball to encourage outward growth.
- Step 6: Planting the Tree: Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
- Step 7: Watering: Water the tree thoroughly after planting. This helps settle the soil and provides initial hydration.
- Step 8: Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (such as shredded bark or wood chips) around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Step 9: Staking (If Necessary): If the tree is in a windy location or has a weak trunk, staking may be necessary for the first year. Use tree straps and stakes designed for this purpose, and be sure to remove them after a year to avoid girdling the trunk.
Caring for Ace of Hearts Redbud: Ensuring Long-Term Health
Once established, Ace of Hearts Redbuds are relatively low-maintenance. However, ongoing care is essential for optimal growth and flowering.
Watering
Water regularly during the first growing season, especially during dry spells. Once established, the tree is moderately drought-tolerant, but supplemental watering may be needed during prolonged periods of drought. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply and less frequently, rather than shallowly and more often.
In a hot, dry climate, you might water deeply once a week, while in a cooler, wetter climate, you might only need to water every few weeks.
Fertilizing
Fertilize in early spring before new growth emerges. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs. Follow the package instructions for application rates. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
A study by the University of Georgia Extension found that applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can significantly improve the growth and flowering of redbud trees.
Pruning
Pruning is generally minimal. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, after the threat of severe frost has passed, but before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. You can also lightly prune to shape the tree or maintain its size, but avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering.
Focus on removing branches that rub against each other, grow inward towards the center of the tree, or are significantly smaller than surrounding branches.
Pest and Disease Control
Ace of Hearts Redbuds are generally resistant to most serious pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally be affected by:
- Canker: A fungal disease that causes sunken lesions on branches and stems. Prune out infected branches promptly.
- Verticillium Wilt: A soilborne fungal disease that can cause wilting and dieback. There is no cure for Verticillium wilt, so prevention is key. Ensure good drainage and avoid planting in areas where Verticillium wilt has been a problem in the past.
- Leaf Spot: Various fungal diseases can cause leaf spots. These are usually cosmetic and do not require treatment. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent leaf spot.
- Borers: Certain borers may attack stressed trees. Keep the tree healthy and vigorous to minimize the risk of borer infestation.
- If pests are present, identify the specific and use local guidelines for treatment.
Propagation of Ace of Hearts Redbud Trees
Ace of Hearts is a named cultivar. That means that to get an identical plant, you cannot grow from seed.
Ace of Hearts Redbud trees are typically propagated through grafting or budding onto a Cercis canadensis rootstock. This ensures that the new tree will have the same desirable characteristics as the parent plant, such as its compact size, heart-shaped leaves, and profuse flowering. While seed propagation is possible for the Cercis canadensis species, the resulting seedlings will not be true to type and will likely not exhibit the unique traits of ‘Ace of Hearts’.
- Grafting: Grafting involves joining a scion (a cutting from the desired cultivar, ‘Ace of Hearts’) to a rootstock (a seedling or cutting of the Eastern Redbud species). The scion provides the upper portion of the tree, while the rootstock provides the root system.
- Budding: Budding is a similar technique, but instead of using a scion with multiple buds, a single bud from the ‘Ace of Hearts’ cultivar is inserted into a T-shaped cut in the bark of the rootstock.
Both grafting and budding require skill and precision. The best time to perform these techniques is during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. The success rate of grafting and budding depends on various factors, including the compatibility of the scion and rootstock, the skill of the grafter, and environmental conditions. For the home gardener, purchasing a grafted or budded tree from a reputable nursery is the most reliable way to acquire an Ace of Hearts Redbud. We at Gardencenterpoint can assist you in finding these nurseries.
Landscape Uses and Design Ideas
The Ace of Hearts Redbud’s compact size and stunning beauty make it a versatile addition to various landscape settings.
- Specimen Tree: Its unique form and vibrant flowers make it an excellent focal point in a small garden or front yard.
- Accent Plant: Use it to add a splash of color and texture to a mixed border or shrub planting.
- Patio Tree: Its manageable size makes it perfect for planting in containers on patios or decks.
- Understory Tree: Plant it under larger shade trees, where it will receive dappled sunlight.
- Wildlife Garden: The flowers attract pollinators, and the seeds provide food for birds.
- Spring Border: Combine it with other spring-blooming plants, such as daffodils, tulips, and flowering dogwoods, for a spectacular display.
- Foundation Planting: Use it to soften the corners of a building or add interest to a foundation planting (ensure adequate spacing from the building).
- Example Garden Design: Create a small, intimate garden space with an Ace of Hearts Redbud as the centerpiece. Surround it with low-growing perennials, such as hostas, ferns, and creeping phlox. Add a small bench or seating area to create a relaxing retreat.
Comparing Ace of Hearts to Other Redbud Cultivars
While Ace of Hearts is a standout choice, other redbud cultivars offer unique characteristics. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best redbud for your specific needs.
| Cultivar | Size (Height x Width) | Flower Color | Leaf Color | Special Features |
| Ace of Hearts | 9-15′ x 9-15′ | Magenta-pink | Deep green | Compact, dense growth; consistently heart-shaped leaves. |
| Forest Pansy | 20-30′ x 25-35′ | Rose-purple | Purple | New foliage emerges bright purple, fading to bronze-green in summer. |
| Ruby Falls | 6-8′ x 4-6′ | Lavender-pink | Purple | Weeping habit; excellent for small spaces. |
| Rising Sun | 8-12′ x 8-12′ | Rosy-Pink | Golden-Orange | New foliage emerges bright orange, then matures to yellow, and eventually green. |
| Appalachian Red | 20-25′ x 15-20′ | Fuchsia-Red | Green | Deeper-red flowers than many other redbud cultivars. |
We recommend that you research all the options before settling on the tree that is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How fast does an Ace of Hearts Redbud grow?
- A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically growing 1-2 feet per year under optimal conditions.
- Q: Is Ace of Hearts Redbud deer-resistant?
- A: It is moderately deer-resistant. While deer may browse on it, they generally prefer other plants.
- Q: Can I grow Ace of Hearts Redbud in a container?
- A: Yes, its compact size makes it well-suited for container growing. Choose a large container with good drainage.
- Q: When does Ace of Hearts Redbud bloom?
- A: It blooms in early spring, typically March-April, depending on your location.
- Q: Does Ace of Hearts Redbud produce seed pods?
- A: Yes, like other redbuds, it produces flat, brown seed pods that persist through the winter. These pods are not particularly ornamental.
- Q: What is the lifespan of an Ace of Hearts redbud tree?
- A: They can live for 50-70 years, or even longer.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Problem: Lack of flowering.
- Possible Causes: Insufficient sunlight, over-fertilization (too much nitrogen), improper pruning, young tree (may take a few years to reach flowering maturity).
- Solutions: Ensure the tree receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day, use a balanced fertilizer, avoid heavy pruning, be patient (young trees may need time to mature).
- Problem: Wilting leaves.
- Possible Causes: Underwatering, overwatering, Verticillium wilt, root damage.
- Solutions: Check soil moisture, adjust watering accordingly, ensure good drainage, avoid planting in areas with a history of Verticillium wilt, protect roots from damage during planting and cultivation.
- Problem: Leaf spots.
- Possible Causes: Fungal diseases.
- Solutions: Usually cosmetic and do not require treatment. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering.
- Problem: Yellowing leaves.
- Possible Causes: Nutrient deficiency, poor drainage, alkaline soil.
- Solutions: Perform a soil test to check for nutrient deficiencies and pH, amend the soil as needed, ensure good drainage.
Finding Ace of Hearts Redbud Trees: Where to Buy
Gardencenterpoint.com is your resource for finding reputable nurseries that sell Ace of Hearts Redbud trees. We connect you with local garden centers and online retailers, allowing you to compare prices and find the best options for your needs. We provide information on:
- Local Nurseries: Search our directory to find nurseries near you that carry Ace of Hearts Redbuds. This allows you to see the trees in person and get advice from local experts.
- Online Retailers: We also provide links to reputable online retailers that sell Ace of Hearts Redbuds. This can be a convenient option if you don’t have a local nursery nearby or if you’re looking for a specific size or container type. We do the commercial investigation for you.
- Price Comparisons: We gather pricing information from various sources to help you find the best deals on Ace of Hearts Redbuds. Prices can vary depending on the size of the tree, the container type, and the retailer. As of February 2025, expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $150 or more for an Ace of Hearts Redbud, depending on its size and maturity.
Beyond Ace of Hearts: Explore Other Garden Treasures
At Gardencenterpoint.com, we’re passionate about helping you create the garden of your dreams. While the Ace of Hearts Redbud is a stunning choice, we encourage you to explore the vast world of plants and gardening resources we offer.
- Discover Similar Trees: Explore other redbud cultivars, flowering dogwoods, crabapples, and other small ornamental trees that can add beauty and interest to your landscape. We have detailed guides and information on a wide variety of trees.
- Enhance Your Gardening Skills: Access our comprehensive guides on planting, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, and other essential gardening techniques. We provide step-by-step instructions and expert advice to help you succeed.
- Find the Right Tools: Check out our reviews and recommendations for gardening tools, equipment, and supplies. We help you find the best products to make your gardening tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Read reviews of new products: Our experts trial new products, and share our findings with you.
Find Where to Buy the Best Ace of Hearts Redbud Tree (Cercis canadensis ‘Ace of Hearts’)
